Well, as I suspected, the 650 beat out the Grizzly in the Dirtwheels October shootout. Basis- sport oriented. They liked its handling and other stuff. Powerwise, the prairie always got the jump, but they were dead even after that. They also said that 30lbs. difference in rider weight made a difference in which was faster with either bike.

They did remark on the ride quality of the Grizzly. It was pretty much all kawasaki though on praise. They didn't knock the Grizzly, but they did make it look to be the second banana. I think they dropped the ball on the ground clearance measurement though, because they said a minimum of 8.5". Hell, I've measured and the lowest point on mine is a little over 10". Thats in the middle of the quad.

Of course, at the end, they did the normal "for this type of riding" thing. The way I look at it, I could have bought a 650 just as easily, but I didn't. I don't have any regrets, regardless of which wins a shootout. It was cool to see the review though.

 

where did you read this review i would like to see it.

 

The article that i read in dirt wheels stated it was to close to call,although it did depend on what type of riding you prefered the griz is the plushy ride where as the kawi is more sportier.and yes the kawi did have the jump off the line....but after they got going the griz caught up....they both are great machines and dependes on your riding ....

 

where did you read the review guys.

 

in tennessee

 

The shootout is in this months dirt wheels magazine

 

well i figured that part out but how did you get it is it out already.

 

i recieved my copy in the mail today

 

Same thing. In the mail. Not even halfway through August, but you get the October issue. Thats a little bit wierd. It said the prairie got the jump always, and after that they were basically even. I think they meant to say that it never gained ground. I don't think it meant that the Griz caught up and then they were even. This is coming from a 660 owner mind you, so I'm not pulling any punches either way.

 

Andy
The way I read it they measured the ground clearance directly under the floorboards, I assume directly under the support. I was glad to see the Prairie fair so well because that's what I bought.
The thing we all have to remember is that right now there is no other stock quad anywhere that is worthy of being in one of these big guys shadows (sorry Polaris people but I've owned two of them and until they go on a diet I wont buy a third).